SHAFAQNA – Iraq’s unity and territorial integrity are key factors that will lead to success in the battle against the ISIL terrorist group and its supporters, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) Ali Shamkhani says.

“Iraq’s unity and integrity are the main factors for success against the Takfiris and their supporters who through creating divisions and diversionary tactics are trying to erode the capacities of the Muslim world in confronting the arrogant system and achieving progress and development,” Shamkhani said.

He made the comments in a meeting with Chairman of the Islamic Supreme Council of Iraq (ISCI) Ammar Hakim in Tehran on Sunday.

Shamkhani described unity and convergence among Iraqi Shia and Sunni Muslims in political and military fields as a great achievement which would reinforce the country’s national and regional power.

The SNSC secretary reaffirmed Iran’s firm determination to continue all-out support for the Iraqi government to eradicate terrorism.

The Iraqi official, for his part, said divisions in Iraq were planned during years of foreign invasion, and finally led to the creation of the ISIL terrorist group.

The schemes that brought about the rise of the ISIL terror group have now backfired on those who created it, the ISCI chairman added.

He further called for the expansion of economic cooperation between Tehran and Baghdad to improve Iraq’s welfare and progress in different aspects.

The ISIL terrorist group, with members from several Western countries, controls swathes of land in Iraq and Syria.

The group has been carrying out horrific acts of violence such as public decapitations and crucifixions against all communities, including Shias, Sunnis, Kurds, and Christians.

Despite the US establishment of an international coalition to allegedly conduct aerial strikes against ISIL positions, the raids have failed to dislodge the terrorist group.

In recent weeks, Iraqi forces have clinched decisive victories against the Takfiri terrorists operating in the Arab country.